How to apply for the Illinois medical card (Medicaid)
In short: apply online at abe.illinois.gov, by phone, in person or on paper. If you are not sure you qualify, HFS says the best thing to do is apply: there is no penalty for applying.
Not a government site. This guide is independent and not affiliated with the State of Illinois, HFS, DHS or FMCSA. To apply, report changes or ask about your case, use the official numbers and links below.
Who may qualify
Eligibility is generally based on income, household size and other factors, including immigration status. Groups who may qualify include pregnant women, children under 19, adults 19 to 64 with limited income, seniors 65 and older, people with disabilities, and foster children and those in adoption assistance.
Four ways to apply
| Way | How |
|---|---|
| Online | abe.illinois.gov. Takes about 30 to 45 minutes; you can save and come back. The same application covers SNAP, cash assistance and the Medicare Savings Program. |
| By phone | DHS Help Line, 1-800-843-6154. Ask for your case number at the end. |
| In person | At a DHS Family Community Resource Center. For in-person help, Get Covered Illinois: 1-866-311-1119. |
| On paper | Download the form from HFS, fill it in, sign it, then carry, mail or fax it to your local Family Community Resource Center. |
Write down your T-number
After you apply online, a tracking number starting with "T" appears next to your application. Keep it: you need it to check your status.
After you apply
- A caseworker reviews your application and may send a letter asking for documents, with a deadline.
- You get a letter saying whether you are approved or denied.
- If approved, within 10 days of the approval letter you get another letter with your Recipient Identification Number (RIN). That letter is your HFS Medical Card.
Checking your status
Do not apply again if it seems slow, which causes delays. Call the DHS Help Line at 1-800-843-6154, say the program you are calling about, then say "case status". Have your T-number ready.
Sources
Checked November 14, 2026. Phone numbers and rules can change, so confirm with the agency before you act.